Kalvin Phillips identifies Manchester United stars who ‘blew him away’
Kalvin Phillips reveals that some of his England teammates were too hot to handle during England’s Euro 2020 training camp – and the Leeds talisman had no problems namedropping two Manchester United stars in his picks.
The Leeds midfielder played a starring role at Euro 2020 as the Three Lions reached their first major tournament final in 55 years.
England were finally defeated by Italy in a penalty shoot-out in the final, they can be proud of their efforts. And they desire to carry on their fine form when they resume their World Cup qualifiers with three matches early next month.
Phillips made his plans clear when outlining his next targets with the Three Lions.
Reflecting on his summer with England, Phillips admits he took a while to feel comfortable among some of his big-name peers.
Indeed, Gareth Southgate plays a lot of five-a-side drills during training. These are both popular with the players and seen as a great way to hone up close-range skills.
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But when asked to name his ultimate five-a-side team, Phillips was quick to highlight three men – and two from Man Utd – in particular.
He said: “The first day we came here, we did this session. A three vs three. It was me, Luke Shaw and Ben White against Sancho, Rashford and Jordan Henderson. They absolutely blew us away.
“We were doing like five hours of different games and stuff, but they were just too good. I’m going to have to go with them.”
In the end, Phillips became a regular in the side under Southgate.
Only goalkeeper Jordan Pickford and John Stones played more minutes for England at the Euros than Phillips.
And he acknowledges he was taken aback by the faith shown in him by the England chief.
“It was a massive surprise,” Phillips said. “I knew I’d done well in the games before the Euros. But I didn’t really know if I was going to play or not, I was just happy to be there.
“Then once you get the first taste you just want to keep playing more and more. The manager showed a lot of faith in me, even changing my position. I’m grateful for that and very happy he did to be fair.
“Last season was obviously so good for me and the (Leeds) team. Finishing ninth in the Premier League shows how well we did and that gave me the chance to play for England.
“I got the nod from Gareth Southgate and I’m very grateful for that. Hopefully I can keep getting into the squad.”
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Kalvin Phillips identifies Manchester United stars who ‘blew him away’
